Earlier today, Senator Warner had a meet-and-greet with several Virginians who were in town attending a SkillsUSA conference. SkillsUSA is a national organization comprised of over 300,000 members working to ensure America continues to develop a skilled workforce. This meeting was particularly special for me to organize because two of the five members in attendance were representing Blacksburg High School, my alma mater.

Leilani Williford and Mrs. Joyce Price, both representatives of Blacksburg High School (student and teacher/advisor, respectfully), were joined by Erica Haynes (student, Franklin County High School), Robert Stringham (advisor, Alexandria) and David Rathbone (State Director, Dublin) in representing the Virginia delegation of SkillsUSA at the Washington Leadership Training Institute; the capstone national training experience for SkillsUSA members. After several good photos, Leilani and Erica took a moment to talk to Senator Warner about the importance of public career and technical education (CTE) and how their participation in SkillsUSA has benefited them in achieving their educational and occupational goals. Senator Warner then had an opportunity to talk about his support for CTE and how as Governor of Virginia he oversaw the largest single investment in K-12 Education in Virginia’s history.

After the Senator left for another meeting, I had the opportunity to talk with Leilani, Erica, and the rest of the delegation about my experiences coming from a rural town in Southwestern Virginia to Capitol Hill. After we exchanged several more stories, the delegation had to leave for their next appointment, which marked the conclusion of a great meeting.

If you or your organization would like to set up a meeting or photo opportunity with Senator Warner, please send an email to our office at: invite@warner.senate.gov or simply click here.

Go Bruins!

Thomas King